At My Learning Studio’s SMART camps, which focus on science, math, art, reading and technology, the staff turns lunchtime into an opportunity to teach campers about foods that keep us healthy and smart.

“Being that we focus on aspects of science within our camp themes,” said Lorna Jenkins, “it only makes sense for us to explore the science of nutrition.” Jenkins is the owner of My Learning Studio, where the camps have become a summer tradition for many families in Riverside.

Parents and teachers often have the responsibility to provide children with information about how food affects their ability to learn and achieve excellence. Robin Allen, a certified nutrition specialist in Riverside, suggests packing nutritious lunches kids will enjoy.

“Begin to read labels,” she said. “You may be surprised by the sugar, sodium and other additives in the most common foods we bring into the kitchen.”

SMART camps follow this advice with daily roundtable discussions at lunchtime. This culminates with a Try It Thursday, a day when campers bring a healthy food dish from home.

During last week’s camp, not only was there a variety of cuisine, but youth campers fluently spoke in five languages.

“This was a most impressive group of campers,” said Angela Griffith, who facilitates the program. “Not only did we have a culturally diverse group from the Riverside area, we had youth visiting from France and China in our enrollment. Everyone had something unique to share.”

Camps continue through the summer with themes such as “The Science of Magic,” “Rockets, Volcanoes & Things That Go Boom,” and “It’s All About ME.”

For more information, contact My Learning Studio at 951-789-5402 or www.mylearningstudio.com.